As we reported yesterday in SPORT, Frenkie de Jong is back. In yesterday’s training the Dutchman took part with the group, confirming that he will be fully qualified to be chosen by Xavi in the Paris eleven. Ahead, four full sessions, which makes us think that, although not 100% due to the lack of competitive rhythm, he will be able to be available if the Terrassa coach deems it appropriate.
From here on, surely one of the most complicated decisions for the Barça coach ahead of that quarter-final first leg at the Parc des Princes. Surely, we would dare to say that the only doubt because the rest of the eleven seems quite ‘sung’ except for some tactical change that the Egarense considers making. Ter Stegen between the sticks, Koundé, Araujo, Cubarsí, Cancelo in the defensive line of four. Above, Lamine Yamal, Raphinha and Lewandowski.
ONE ONLY ‘DANCER’ POSITION
In the engine room, Ilkay Gündogan has a guaranteed place. He is in a great moment and is becoming more and more definitive in 3/4 of the field. Christensen, out at the Metropolitano at the last minute due to Achilles discomfort, a priori should return. And if he is fit he is a sure starter. The team has gained a lot of consistency with the Dane as the pivot. Since Xavi’s ‘readjustment’ he fits in much less. Solidity, would be the word.
Fermín celebrates his goal at the Metropolitano / EFE
In between Frenkie de Jong, Fermín and Sergi Roberto would play the other interior position. From experience and having seen what we have seen in the last two matches, Roberto seems one step ahead of Fermín. From there, he will have to decide for the Barça coach whether De Jong is ready to start despite this inactivity.
THE ‘PRETORIAN GUARD’
The Dutch, Until that injury suffered against Athletic, he was untouchable for Xavi. Non-negotiable. Along with Pedri, Gündogan and Gavi, the ‘praetorian guard’ is in the Barça midfield. A theoretical gala formation that has barely been able to coincide on the field, by the way.
Xavi fully trusts Sergi Roberto / EFE
Without Frenkie, without Pedri and without Gavi, the Terrassa coach faced Napoli and Atlético in a decisive week. For the economic and sporting stability of the club. AND Both Fermín and Sergi Roberto, the second unit, worked great. They gave dynamism, they worked. The team’s performance with them in both commitments was impeccable.
And that is what raises some doubt for Paris. That conjunction between Frenkie’s competitive inactivity and the good response of this formula in the engine room. His big decision for Wednesday.
